Ahh… the holidays are here. It’s such a special time of year. But, sometimes it can seem a little, errr……..hectic? Stressful? Chaotic? And in all of the hustle and bustle, it can be hard to show your emotions accurately to loved ones.

In the midst of all of the holiday madness, it’s essential we still make time for those who mean the most.

Today, we want to share some simple ways you can make your in-laws feel extra special this holiday season. Because, whether you’re meeting your partner’s family for the first time or you’ve been together for twenty years, it’s important to make your partner’s family feel loved and welcomed.

7 Ways to Impress Your Partner’s Family Over the Holidays

1. Bring Your Family-Favorite Plate to Pass

Introduce a part of family traditions into your partner’s family. Whether it’s cookies or a loaf of bread, bring a dish to pass that reminds you of your own family. Not only will you feel more at home, but your in-laws will get a better perspective of your family traditions and values.

2. Slow Down & Unplug

Take a deep breath and allow yourself to feel present. When you enter your partner’s family’s home, put away your phone and other responsibilities and just be. Remind yourself, there is nothing greater than the moment you are in. By being present you’ll make memories to cherish years down the road.

3. Share a Loving Story About Your Partner

Take the opportunity to toot your partner’s horn in front of his family. By speaking kindly and highly of your partner, their family will get a better glimpse at the loving nature of your relationship. This will help others understand your relationship and make them feel more included in your everyday life.

4. Offer to Do the Dishes

The worst part of hosting is always doing the dishes. Take the brave initiative to roll up your sleeves and help in the kitchen. Whether it’s loading the dishwasher or putting away glassware, the host will appreciate your help, we promise!

5. Play with the Kids

Sometimes the hardest part of a family gathering is knowing who to talk to and when to talk. A simple way to relieve that stress is to play with the kids. Take a moment to sit on the floor and entertain the kids. Your partner’s family will appreciate the attention you dote on their children. They’ll also be grateful for the break it gives them from tending the flock. Love their children and their parent’s adoration will soon follow.

6. Flowers to the Host

Honestly, who doesn’t like flowers? This classic gesture is one of kindness and gratefulness. It also shows that you took the extra energy to do something special. Plus, there’s nothing like receiving flowers to make someone swell with happiness.

7. Make Plans for After the Holidays

Don’t the let the happy moments shared with family stop after the holidays. Rally your partner’s family to come over to your home in the weeks to follow. By making follow-up plans, your in-laws (or future in-laws) will recognize that you truly value them and want to make more time for family.

What are some simple ways that you have shown your love and adoration to your partner’s family? Do you have any advice or tips that we missed? Be sure that you share your ideas in the comments below.